We hear a lot about child obesity these days so three years ago a bike charity was set up in Utah to provide bicycles for 1,000 underprivileged kids. The charity was set up by Debbie Reid with the aim of providing both a positive education and a cycling experience for disadvantaged children.The first event took place on the 30th September 2006. The format was simple there were 3 different rides, one a family ride of 5 kilometers, the second a 100 kilometer ride and finally a 50 kilometer ride with Dave Zabriskie the third American to wear the yellow jersey in the Tour de France.


From 10:30 a.m. on the day of the event and every half hour after that bikes were delivered by local and political leaders to a new group of children. In addition to the bikes the youngsters were given helmets and t-shirts and a lock for each bicycle. They also got to attend a bike fair and were given instruction in cycle safety and how important it is to obey traffic signals and wear helmets. The youngsters were chosen from Boys & Girls Club of Murray, the Guadalupe School and Rose Park Elementary.

What is so good about this initiative is that firstly it gives these kids a fun way of getting to school which costs little or nothing. In addition they are getting regular exercise and a sense of responsibility in owning and looking after their own bicycle. The provision of any equipment like this which encourages physical and mental activity should be applauded.

The bike charity has been so successful has that they are now organizing their third annual event.